We welcome the decision of the Government's Planning Inspector to give the go ahead for the Heart of Shirley. This is an independent decision that vindicates the stand taken by Conservatives against fierce political opposition.
At a difficult economic time the development will bring much needed jobs and housing as well as new shops and better public facilities. Despite financial pressures it will still provide half a million pounds to improve Shirley Park together with 500 car parking spaces for the public.
50 years ago the Shirley shops were known as the Golden Mile. Sadly this is no longer the case as pointed out by the Inspector. The decision should also mean that the derelict Powergen site can now be released for redevelopment.
We believe that this development will bring prosperity back to the Stratford Road shops and that it is the right development to take Shirley into the 21st century. We will work with residents and the developer to ensure that any disturbance is minimised.
Councillors Hannah Tildesley, Gary Allport, Peter Doyle & Mark Parker